Rio Olympics

Aug 19th, 2016

Charley Hull benefits from Justin Rose’s experience

As JR’s caddie gives Team GB his course notes

Words: John Dean Photography: Getty Images

Charlie Hull arrived in Rio on Sunday evening, just hours after Justin Rose had won the first Olympic golf gold after a thrilling duel with Henrik Stenson which went up the 18th.

Rose’s caddie Mark Fulcher then passed on his extensive notes on the course at Reserva de Marapendi to Team GB leader Jamie Spence, who in turn gave them to Hull and team-mate Catriona Matthew. We just love that brilliant bit of teamwork!

And the information and knowledge passed onto Hull and Matthew seems to have had a big impact, as both carded second rounds of 66 on Thursday to lie two and five shots respectively off the lead held by Korea’s seven-time major champion Inbee Park.

On Day 2 Hull really got the bit between her teeth, and shot a five-under 66 to move to eight under, just two shots behind the leader Imbee Park.

Catriona Matthew also moved from tied 26th at the start of play to a share of 13th position on five under.

The best round of the day went to Stacy Lewis, who shot an eight-under-par 63, and is one shot behind Park at the halfway point.

Hull, who birdied the last three holes and six in total, has always managed to raise her game when representing Britain or Europe.

“I enjoy it. It’s a lot of fun,” said Hull. I’m kind of representing my country every week when I’m playing, but this week you know you’re a part of the team, so it’s good fun. I really enjoy playing in major competitions and you can’t get much better than this.

“Being on an Olympic leaderboard is pretty cool but I’m just trying to treat this like any other event so I don’t make myself too nervous.”

But how cool would a Justin and Charley victory be?! No pressure Charlie. One shot at a time.....